The new generation of the mid-size crossover has been redesigned recently and the 2021 Ford Explorer will represent the second production year. Therefore, no one expects to see bigger changes. The model should carry on with a familiar design, which has brought some pretty interesting design solutions. Still, that doesn’t mean there isn’t enough room for novelties. Some reports suggest that the plug-in hybrid may come to the North American market after all. Currently, this version is available only in Europe. Other than that, we count on novelties in terms of new standard features.
2021 Ford Explorer Redesign
In terms of base design characteristics and exterior styling, we definitely don’t want to see any particular changes. The 2021 Ford Explorer will carry on in the same way, riding on a new CD6 platform, the same one that will be used in the next-generation Mustang. Of course, the first thing that comes to mind about this platform is the RWD layout, which makes the Explorer more exclusive compared to other mid-size SUVs in the class.
Also, the new model is significantly bigger, as it gets more than 6.5-inches in wheelbase. Now with more than 119 inches in wheelbase, the Explorer can finally compete with the biggest models in the class, such as VW Atlas and Chevy Traverse. When it comes to the styling, the recent redesign has brought evolutionary changes only, so we have no doubt that the 2021 Ford Explorer will carry on in the same way.
Interior
When it comes to interior design, a longer wheelbase definitely brings significant improvements in terms of legroom and cargo space. All three rows are now much more comfortable, while the cargo capacity now goes up to 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row and 88 cubic feet of overall cargo capacity. When it comes to the interior quality, the Explorer has never been famous for upscale cabins.
The same thing is with the new model, as most rivals feel classier. This particularly refers to base trims, which look really blend. Still, that doesn’t change the fact that the model’s cabin is comfortable and very functional.
Features
This is the aspect where we could see a couple of additions for the next year. Still, we don’t expect too much, considering that the current model already looks pretty good in this aspect. There is a lot of standard tech goodies in base models, including an 8-inch touchscreen. In higher trims, you can get a vertically-oriented 10.1-inch touchscreen.
When it comes to safety systems, all models come standard with things like blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane keep assist, a rearview camera with a lens washer, automatic high-beam headlights, post-collision braking, and a pre-collision system with forward collision warning, forward automatic emergency braking. That’s a really generous list of features, but you can get even more in higher trims.
2021 Ford Explorer Engines
When it comes to the powertrain, the latest reports are suggesting a plug-in hybrid could be offered in North America. That means a system based on a 3.0-liter turbo V6 engine, with a combined output of 450 horsepower 600 pound-feet of torque. Other than that, the engine lineup should remain the same. Base models will carry on with a 2.3-liter turbo-four with around 300 horsepower. A 3.0-liter V6 comes in two output variants, with either 365 or 400 horsepower. Finally, there is a classic hybrid version, based on a 3.3-V6 engine. This one is good for about 318 horsepower.
2021 Ford Explorer Release Date and Price
We expect to see 2021 Ford Explorer sometime in the last quarter of the next year. When it comes to the price, base models will go around 33.500 dollars.
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